There's not a single [ROGER WATERS] solo number that can compare to the big Floyd numbers here: "Breathe," "Money," "Welcome to the Machine," "Comfortably Numb" among them. Though they remain a thrill to hear, the effect is somewhat attenuated by Waters' band, which sounds like a top-notch Pink Floyd tribute outfit instead of something daringly different.

What's left of Pink Floyd has hardly covered itself in creative glory since the split with Waters. But compare "In the Flesh" to Floyd's 1995 concert document "Pulse," and it's easy to locate the real spirit of Pink Floyd. Hint: It ain't here. - KEVIN R. CONVEY

Indeed, the bell-toned singing of Pentangle's Jacqui McShee seems to be the model for Solas vocalist Deirdre Scanlan on the haunting "Last of the Great Whales," and [John Doyle]'s turn on "A Miner's Life" recalls Steeleye Span's version of "Blackleg Miner." Elsewhere, Solas' fusion of Celtic elements, jazzlike improvisation and other world music styles remains intact. Purists may quail at Solas' refusal to be confined by the tradition, but it's undoubtedly this ethos that keeps the band shining through turbulent times. K.R.C.